FINAL BILL REPORT
EHB 2335
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
C 122 L 14
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Concerning extended foster care services.
Sponsors: Representatives Roberts, Parker, Kagi, Carlyle, Freeman, Goodman, Walsh, Sawyer, Senn, Zeiger, Jinkins, Muri, Reykdal and Ormsby.
House Committee on Early Learning & Human Services
House Committee on Appropriations
Senate Committee on Ways & Means
Background:
In 2008 the federal Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act (Fostering Connections Act) was signed into federal law. Among its many provisions, the Fostering Connections Act created a pathway for states to use federal foster care funding to extend foster care services to youths ages 19-21 years if the youths engage in certain qualifying activities.
In 2011 legislation was enacted establishing the Extended Foster Care program in Washington. Originally, youths ages 19-21 years were eligible for extended foster care services if the youths were participating in or completing a secondary education program or a secondary education equivalency program. Extended foster care services include, but are not limited to, foster care placement or placement in a supervised independent living setting, medical or dental services, transitional living services, case management, and assistance meeting basic needs.
In 2012 the Legislature expanded extended foster care eligibility to include youths who are enrolled or have applied for and demonstrate intent to enroll in a postsecondary academic or postsecondary vocational program. In 2013 the Legislature further expanded qualifying activities to allow a youth to request extended foster care services if the youth has an open dependency case at age 18 years and is participating in a program or activity designed to promote employment or remove barriers to employment.
Summary:
A youth is eligible for extended foster care services if the youth engages in employment for 80 hours or more per month. Additionally, expenditures on the new category of extended foster care are limited to the funding provided specifically for that purpose.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 88 | 10 | |
Senate | 49 | 0 | (Senate amended) |
House | 86 | 10 | (House concurred) |
Effective: | March 1, 2015 |